What is the normal temperature range for a healthy adult?

The normal temperature range for a healthy adult is generally considered to be between 97.6°F and 99.6°F. This range reflects the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment, or homeostasis, despite external changes. A temperature of 98.6°F is often cited as the average adult body temperature, but individual variations can occur based on various factors such as the time of day, the person's activity level, and individual physiological differences.

Understanding this range is crucial for healthcare professionals, including CNAs, as it helps in assessing a patient's health status. A temperature outside of this range may indicate a febrile condition or hypothermia, which can require further evaluation and monitoring.

The other options reflect different interpretations of what might be considered normal, but they are either too narrow or too broad, making them less accurate for defining the established normal temperature range for healthy adults.